Betty Korby-Winnen

Obituary of Betty Korby-Winnen Hancock/CalumetBetty Marcella Korby-Winnen, 86, a resident of Hancock and formerly of Calumet, passed away Monday morning October 8, 2012. She resided at the Winona House of Portage Pointe where she has been an Elder there for almost 2 years and has been in their loving care. The aides and nurses that cared for her at Portage Pointe were "angels" that walk this Earth.She was born in Ahmeek, MI; a daughter of the late Matthew and Esther (Waatti) Anderson (Finnish and Norwegian immigrants). Betty grew up in Laurium and attended the Calumet Public Schools. From an early age Betty had a love for singing, music and her relationship with the Lord. She often sang on the radio to the tunes of Kitty Wells, and spiritual hymns. Her voice was so lovely that at the age of 12 she won 1st place in a prestigious talent content winning prizes from all of the stores in Calumet and Laurium for her entire family. The prizes that she won in these singing competitions helped to bring her family clothing and food during the depression era. In 1943 she was united in marriage to Melvin Arthur Korby of Allouez and together over a period of 35 wonderful years they were blessed with four children. In the late 1940's the family moved to Warren, MI for work in the automotive industry. Melvin preceded Betty in death in 1978. In 1996, Betty returned "home" to the Copper Country and was united in marriage to Russell Winnen. Russ and Betty shared 9 happy years together. Russell preceded Betty in death in 2005.While residing in Warren Betty began a career in floral design. Designing floral arrangements for weddings and other special occasions became her artwork and true passion. Betty was very proud that her wreathes and designs were chosen to help decorate Hudson's Department store in Detroit, MI. She was also employed by the State of Michigan for the Warren Consolidated Schools for many years.Betty was a great role model in everything she did in her life. She loved people and was a true caregiver. She dedicated her life to taking care of her husband and family, her ailing brothers and many other friends during and at the end of their lives. She loved to spend time visiting with her family and friends and the coffee pot was never empty to welcome those entered her home. Her dedication to her family was so strong that she retired early from the school system to care of her grandchildren. Betty enjoyed dancing every Sunday at the White House in Mohawk and various other locations through out the Copper Country. Her favorite song was "Storms Never Last" by Waylon Jennings and Jessie Colter. Each Sunday they would dedicate the song to Betty at the White House. She always said the song talked about the storms we go through in this life and how if we hold each other close and love one another through it the sun will shine through. She always held her arms and heart open to a friend in need.Preceding her in death were her husbands, her infant son Roger, her parents, her sister Geraldine Noopa, and her brothers; Gerald and Raymond.Surviving are:Her children:Terry (Janet) Korby of HancockDennis (Rita) Korby of LauriumBrenda (Richard) Parker of HancockHer grandchildren:Terry Jr., Charmaine (Al), Kimberly (Phillip), Nichole (Dallas), April (John), Tim (Kalyssa), Hannah (Ray) and R.J.Her great-grandchildren:Emily, Leigha, Lucas, Sophia, Jeffrey, Michael, Christopher, Taylor, Julia, Emma, Noah, and AryanIn addition, Betty had numerous step-children, nieces, nephews and cousins.Betty is and will always be the heart of our family. She would want everyone to know that she died trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ and he was with her by her side.A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 12, 2012, at the First Baptist Church of Calumet on Depot St. with Pastor Joel Evilsizer officiating. Friends may call on Friday, October 12th from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at the church.To view Betty's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorial chapel.net. Memorial Chapel of Hancock had assisted the family.Service Information To send flowers to the family of Betty Korby-Winnen, please visit Tribute Store